The Sports Thread

[mr-paul]

We have the football thread, which is extremely active, but I have noticed that not many other sports are mentioned on here, apart from the occasional F1 thread or rugby which pops up every so often and other random events. Therefore, I have created this general sports thread for any sport that isn't football! Cricket, Rugby, Tennis, Lawn Bowls, whatever interests you, post it in here!

To start off, has anyone been watching the athletics? Us Brits didn't do too bad in it. What do you think about Christine Ohorugu's situation (missed 3 drugs tests so is banned from the olympics). Personally, I feel she should be allowed, as her mistake was through pure stupidity, not avoiding tests because she was actually on drugs.

[Daft]

Unless she has an amazingly good reason for missing all three drugs test , I highly doubt it, then I think her ban is just.

[mr-paul]

Unless she has an amazingly good reason for missing all three drugs test , I highly doubt it, then I think her ban is just.
I get why you think that, but it isn't an olympic ban that she really has, it is the British who don't allow athletes who have failed a drugs test compete for them in the olympics. Surely, missing tests isn't as serious as actually taking performance enhancing drugs?

[Slaggis]

She's been banned for a year, and served that ban. I think she should beable to run in the olympics, seeing as she could win us a gold too.

[Charlie]

To start off, has anyone been watching the athletics? Us Brits didn't do too bad in it. What do you think about Christine Ohorugu's situation (missed 3 drugs tests so is banned from the olympics). Personally, I feel she should be allowed, as her mistake was through pure stupidity, not avoiding tests because she was actually on drugs.

If she's stupid enough to miss 3 drug tests then she's too stupid to be allowed in our squad. Missing one test is bad enough, 2 is unacceptable, and 3? I don't want her in our team.

[Ginger_Chris]

There is a huge difference between missing three drugs tests and testing positive. Especially when the three drugs tests weren't consecutive ones, and she tested negative on all adjacent tests in between. It would have been very very difficult and extremely unlikely for to have been able to take drugs and not be caught. She doesn't deserve a lifetime olympic ban, she's done her time already.

[mr-paul]

She's been banned for a year, and served that ban. I think she should beable to run in the olympics, seeing as she could win us a gold too.
Yeah definitely. Even though we have the 2nd best 400m runner as well (Nicola Sanders), but it would be nicer to have the 2 top runners rather than just one!

[conzer16]

For anyone who follows hurling (Takeo :p ): Kilkenny beat Limerick in the Guinness All Ireland Hurling Championship yesterday by 7 points.

[mr-paul]

If she's stupid enough to miss 3 drug tests then she's too stupid to be allowed in our squad. Missing one test is bad enough, 2 is unacceptable, and 3? I don't want her in our team.
So you don't care that we could have a drug free person in our team who could win a medal banned, where teams like the Americans win medals with people who have previosuly tested positive for drugs?

For anyone who follows hurling (Takeo :p ): Kilkenny beat Limerick in the Guinness All Ireland Hurling Championship yesterday by 7 points.
How exactly does Hurling work Conzer? Any similarities to the games we have here in Britain?

[King_V]

It depends on how far apart those missed tests were. If it was something 3 missed within the space of 6 months then no chance.

Just because she could win us a gold its not fair on other athletes and she didn't even win her race by much. And by 2012 new hopefuls will step to the plate.

On a side note whats up with Phillips Idowu's piercings? o_O

[JonSt]

Look, as far as I'm concerned she ain't no cheat. She was tested and no drugs were found even with blood tests. Shouldn't be banned for that.

As for other sports. Basketball is my game, shame it ain't very big over here.

[Daft]

I get why you think that, but it isn't an olympic ban that she really has, it is the British who don't allow athletes who have failed a drugs test compete for them in the olympics. Surely, missing tests isn't as serious as actually taking performance enhancing drugs?

Yea but you have to wonder why she missed three tests...Has she given a reason?

[mr-paul]

I think the 3 tests were over her whole career, not consecutive or within a specifictime period. And i'm talking about next years olympics for her winning a medal, not necessarily in 5 years time.

Edit: @Daft: I'm not too sure, I'll have a look, but I think it may have been general forgetfulness.

[Daft]

Edit: @Daft: I'm not too sure, I'll have a look, but I think it may have been general forgetfulness.

Surley she would have known the consequences and severity of missing a single drugs test, let alone three, how seriously does she want to win?

[mr-paul]

Surley she would have known the consequences and severity of missing a single drugs test, let alone three, how seriously does she want to win?
I admit she was very stupid, but she has now served her ban. I cant find a reason for missing a test, but found out that she has said she will compete in the olympics for another country if she isn't allowed to represent GB.

Look, as far as I'm concerned she ain't no cheat. She was tested and no drugs were found even with blood tests. Shouldn't be banned for that.

As for other sports. Basketball is my game, shame it ain't very big over here.
I like Basketball, always good when it is on Sky Sports. Don't particularly follow a team though. Who do you follow/support?

[King_V]

I admit she was very stupid, but she has now served her ban. I cant find a reason for missing a test, but found out that she has said she will compete in the olympics for another country if she isn't allowed to represent GB.


I like Basketball, always good when it is on Sky Sports. Don't particularly follow a team though. Who do you follow/support?

That would be Nigeria...Oh well. Though I'd probably do the same thing for revenge. >)

[Daft]

Just for the record, I've changed my mind and I do think its really quite harsh, but, that said, things don't really add up. The people who banned her know a lot more about the situation so I'd have to assume that they have reason for the severity of the punishment...unless that is standard practice?

[mr-paul]

Just for the record, I've changed my mind and I do think its really quite harsh, but, that said, things don't really add up. The people who banned her know a lot more about the situation so I'd have to assume that they have reason for the severity of the punishment...unless that is standard practice?
I think it is a standard ban for the rule she broke. I think you get 2 years for faling a test, 1 year for missing 3. It's become a big fuss as she's the first "big" athlete to experiece this rule, aswell as being one of our greatest medal prospects.

[Daft]

I think it is a standard ban for the rule she broke. I think you get 2 years for faling a test, 1 year for missing 3. It's become a big fuss as she's the first "big" athlete to experiece this rule, aswell as being one of our greatest medal prospects.

What, I'm confused...Its meant to be a 1 year ban for missing 3 but she got banned for life from the Olympics? Or is she just missing the next Olymics?

Either way, she knew she was going to get in trouble if she missed 3 its not like it suddenly caught her out the blue.

[mr-paul]

What, I'm confused...Its meant to be a 1 year ban for missing 3 but she got banned for life from the Olympics? Or is she just missing the next Olymics?

Either way, she knew she was going to get in trouble if she missed 3 its not like it suddenly caught her out the blue.
Sorry for being confusing, the 1 year ban was from all athletics, and she has served that, ended a month ago. The olympic ban is from the British Olympic Association, who won't let anyone who has served a drugs ban compete for the british team ever. She has appealed against this decision on the grounds that she never actually has failed a drugs test.

[Daft]

Don't worry that was me being a muppet.

All I can say is she new the consequences...She obviously has really bad timing! :heh:

I'm loving this thread btw!

[mr-paul]

Don't worry that was me being a muppet.

All I can say is she new the consequences...She obviously has really bad timing! :heh:

I'm loving this thread btw!
yay, my thread is loved!
Yeah, very bad timing! Dunno how long this rule has been in place though. Her own fault though.

[mariosmentor]

Well the reason they are being harsh is because they have to enforce the rule. If they gave leniency to her just because she's a good stupid athlete then the rule would be null and void for then all athletes would use her example to appeal these bans.

Letting her go just because she's good would be unfair to weaker athletes who wouldn't get the same treatment, aka would have to serve the full ban just because they don't have gold medal potential.

In all honesty I think she should just serve her ban and get it over with if its only for a year. She's stupid enough to miss the tests then she must still suffer the penalties.

The decision for a lifetime ban from the Olympics however is absurd. I understand a temporary ban but lifetime? Britain needs to sort that out.

[mr-paul]

Well the reason they are being harsh is because they have to enforce the rule. If they gave leniency to her just because she's a good stupid athlete then the rule would be null and void for then all athletes would use her example to appeal these bans.

Letting her go just because she's good would be unfair to weaker athletes who wouldn't get the same treatment, aka would have to serve the full ban just because they don't have gold medal potential.

In all honesty I think she should just serve her ban and get it over with if its only for a year. She's stupid enough to miss the tests then she must still suffer the penalties.
She has already served the main ban, it is just the olympic ban, which only the british enforce, she is trying to get overturned.

Also in athletics, does anyone find the relays the most exciting event to watch??? I always find they double my heartrate, they're so exciting! Tis slightly weird how we're rubbish at individual sprinting but 3rd to the US and Jamaica in the relays.

[mariosmentor]

She has already served the main ban, it is just the olympic ban, which only the british enforce, she is trying to get overturned.


Yea, edited once I read you're post. She should have got a temp ban but a lifetime one is way too harsh.

She's still stupid though.

[Daft]

She's still stupid though.

I loled, because thats what it really comes down to. In the words of the great and mighty Radiohead, "You do it to yourself, you do and thats why it really hurts!"

[motion]

Just to quickly jump into the athletics discussion, to err... talk about another sport...

Rugby World Cup starting on Friday, hope you'll all catch a game or two!!

[mcj metroid]

We already have a rugby thread.. we should be talking about the ming of sports... This is of course curling(was going to say chess)

[motion]

Alright I'll feck off then *sniff*

[mr-paul]

Just to quickly jump into the athletics discussion, to err... talk about another sport...

Rugby World Cup starting on Friday, hope you'll all catch a game or two!!
Definitely will. My dad is mad about Rugby, he'll be watching every game! Tis a fun sport to watch, I went to the premiership final this year.

We already have a rugby thread.. we should be talking about the ming of sports... This is of course curling(was going to say chess)
Lol, curling is funny. Definitely not the king of sports though. That has to go to tiddlywinks or dominoes.

[Daft]

This is where it is at people!

http://www.etwa.org/

Lol, curling is funny. Definitely not the king of sports though. That has to go to tiddlywinks or dominoes.

Crap, you read my mind....

[motion]

Shame the premiership final was so one sided! I'll be missing a few games here and there cause I'll actually be at a couple of the games!

[mariosmentor]

This is either music or sport but Neil Hannon from The Divine Comedy said that Ireland is going to win the rugby world cup and there's nothing anybody can do about it.

Legend.

[mr-paul]

Shame the premiership final was so one sided! I'll be missing a few games here and there cause I'll actually be at a couple of the games!
Ooh, which ones you going to? I think it is a tad silly that some of the games are in Scotland and Wales, when it's meant to be France's world cup.

Ooh, I'm a "Regular" now!

[mcj metroid]

Alright I'll feck off then *sniff*

aw dont go you can talk about rugby all you want.....in the rugby thread of course.:)

No curling is the worst sport i have ever seen in my life

[Daft]

aw dont go you can talk about rugby all you want.....in the rugby thread of course.:)

No curling is the worst sport i have ever seen in my life

Is curling the one on ice with the brooms?

[mcj metroid]

yes thats the one ha? its in 1 game in wario ware and even there its fucked up:)

[mr-paul]

Is curling the one on ice with the brooms?
Yes it is. There's monkey curling on timesplitters 3 :heh:

[motion]

This is either music or sport but Neil Hannon from The Divine Comedy said that Ireland is going to win the rugby world cup and there's nothing anybody can do about it.

Legend.

Then I'm afraid he's very very deluded :awesome: ;)

Ooh, which ones you going to? I think it is a tad silly that some of the games are in Scotland and Wales, when it's meant to be France's world cup.

Ooh, I'm a "Regular" now!

Going to England v USA, England v South Africa and a quarter final! woooooo

It's quite pathetic really about the fact that some games are in Wales and Scotland. It was basically a case of France giving both nations two of their games in each of their stadiums in exchange for votes when it came to bidding the host for the tournament.

[Daft]

I don't quite know why but I find that sport strangely absorbing...I know, weird.

I've got a bit of a controversial one...I hate cricket, like I hate human suffering.

[mr-paul]

Then I'm afraid he's very very deluded :awesome: ;)



Going to England v USA, England v South Africa and a quarter final! woooooo

It's quite pathetic really about the fact that some games are in Wales and Scotland. It was basically a case of France giving both nations two of their games in each of their stadiums in exchange for votes when it came to bidding the host for the tournament.
Whoah, I didn't know it was for something like that. That's out of order imo.
Have fun at those matches, England should at least beat the USA.

[mcj metroid]

i also hate cricket but at least its funny to watch:) in an unintensional way

[mr-paul]

I don't quite know why but I find that sport strangely absorbing...I know, weird.

I've got a bit of a controversial one...I hate cricket, like I hate human suffering.
Cricket is fun to play, but can get very boring to watch, especially with rain delays.

[Daft]

I just remember wanting to play football at school but because there was a cricket match on the field we couldn't. Honestly they only use about 10% of the pitch for 90% of the bloody time...

[motion]

Cricket I find boring to be honest, but got nothing else against it really. Tennis is cool though

Whoah, I didn't know it was for something like that. That's out of order imo.
Have fun at those matches, England should at least beat the USA.

Yeah it is a bit dodgy but oh well. It won't help Wales or Scotland as they'll still get thumped by Australia or New Zealand lol so never mind. Not given up hope of England beating South africa just yet!

[mr-paul]

Anyone watching the Inside Sport program on BBC? Tis quite interesting. They just said back in the old days when Sally Gunnell was competing and she missed drug tests all she got was a slap on the wrist.

[JonSt]

I admit she was very stupid, but she has now served her ban. I cant find a reason for missing a test, but found out that she has said she will compete in the olympics for another country if she isn't allowed to represent GB.


I like Basketball, always good when it is on Sky Sports. Don't particularly follow a team though. Who do you follow/support?

I've always followed the Orlando Magic, big fan of J.J reddick, plays like my - dealy from 3 point range.

[mr-paul]

I've always followed the Orlando Magic, big fan of J.J reddick, plays like my - dealy from 3 point range.
Aaah, Orlando Magic. When I was 3 and went to florida, i tripped over and grazed my knee and wouldn't stop crying so a kind man gave me an Orlando Magic ball. Still have it somewhere. (bit off topic but ahwell)

[Zell]

I think we should all turn this into a general cricket thread (coz cricket > every other sport). So the twenty20 world cup isn't that far away, and I personally think it's anyone's for the taking, seeing as international experience at twenty20 level is so slim. Could England win it? Maybe, if all our all-rounders perform. But then again, Australia did destroy us, maybe they'll walk it just like they did the one-day world cup.

[Slaggis]

Badmington is the best sport to play imo, I love it. Watching it on the other hand is, well, a bit shit.

[mcj metroid]

i love skipping and am really good at it i must say.

[ThePigMarcher]

The NFL season opens on Thursday night and I cannot wait for it all to begin again.

Just in case the sig hasn't clued you up , I am a massive fan of the sport and have been for a number of years and apart from the occasional Ice Hockey game it's pretty much the only sport I really enjoy watching.

I have quite high hopes for my beloved Seahawks this year but previous experience also tells me to expect them to find a way of naffing it all up.

[Ginger_Chris]

Squash is another of those games that's great to play and rubbish to watch. In fact its really bad to watch because the balls moving to fast to see properly and all you watching it two people running around hitting the air.

[Slaggis]

Squash is another of those games that's great to play and rubbish to watch. In fact its really bad to watch because the balls moving to fast to see properly and all you watching it two people running around hitting the air.

Definitely, squash is a really great sport to play. Really energetic.

[Roostophe]

The NFL season opens on Thursday night and I cannot wait for it all to begin again.

Just in case the sig hasn't clued you up , I am a massive fan of the sport and have been for a number of years and apart from the occasional Ice Hockey game it's pretty much the only sport I really enjoy watching.

I have quite high hopes for my beloved Seahawks this year but previous experience also tells me to expect them to find a way of naffing it all up.

I'm thinking of having a look at the NFL. See how the Cleveland Browns get on.

[Stefkov]

The NFL season opens on Thursday night and I cannot wait for it all to begin again.

Just in case the sig hasn't clued you up , I am a massive fan of the sport and have been for a number of years and apart from the occasional Ice Hockey game it's pretty much the only sport I really enjoy watching.

I have quite high hopes for my beloved Seahawks this year but previous experience also tells me to expect them to find a way of naffing it all up.
Thursday?
I'll be setting my V+ box to record the games. Can't wait to go see the Dolphins vs Giants in Wembley.

[mr-paul]

My only problem with NFL is the same one everyone does- can't stand how it stops after every single play. I like my sports to be pretty continuous.

[mariosmentor]

I quite enjoy watching hockey, fast paced US sport as apposed to baseball and football(US).

Hockey was always fun to play aswell, really easy game to get to grips with.

[conzer16]

How exactly does Hurling work Conzer? Any similarities to the games we have here in Britain?


Well here's a quick rundown!!

There's a team of 15 players. They line out traditionally in a 6-2-6 formation. 6 backs, 2 midfielders and 6 forwards, thus:

Goalkeeper

Right Corner Back - Full Back - Left Corner Back

Right Wing Back - Centre Back - Left Wing Back

Midfielder - Midfielder

Right Wing Forward - Centre Forward - Left Wing Forward

Right Corner Forward - Full Forward - Left Wing Forward


The game is played using a hurl or hurley (Irish: camán) and this is made from ash. It is similar to a hockey stick but wider at the base with a large flat striking surface. The hurl is used to control and strike the ball called a sliothar (pronounced: sli-thur) which is a hard leather covered ball about the size of a tennis ball made form a core of twine bound cork.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d4/Hurling_Ball_and_Hurley.JPG/800px-Hurling_Ball_and_Hurley.JPG

The idea in hurling is to get the sliothar over the bar and between the posts of your opponents goal, doing so awards you with a single point. If the sliothar is hit into the net it is worth a goal - or 3 points.

The goal posts are seven yards (6.37 m) apart and the crossbar is seven feet (2.12 m) above the ground.

It's played on a pitch that is much larger than a soccer or rugby pitch. You might have noticed during the 6 Nations this year during the Ireland games in Croke park that the pitch surface was huge in comparison to the Rugby layout.

Here's a good sketch from BBC.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/39420000/gif/_39420559_gaa_pitch_dimensions2_298.gif

At the end of 2 halves of 35 minutes each the team with the most points wins.

Simple really.

Nice introduction to hurling and explanation of the game on this video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AM-kB1e96CA) here.

As for any games that ye would have in Britain that are similar, I know of only one. The Scottish version of this game is called Shinty.

Hurling

Shinty

[mcj metroid]

aw introducing hurling eh haha. ya i watched that great stuff but we LOSTTTT:(

[mr-paul]

Well here's a quick rundown!!

There's a team of 15 players. They line out traditionally in a 6-2-6 formation. 6 backs, 2 midfielders and 6 forwards, thus:

Goalkeeper

Right Corner Back - Full Back - Left Corner Back

Right Wing Back - Centre Back - Left Wing Back

Midfielder - Midfielder

Right Wing Forward - Centre Forward - Left Wing Forward

Right Corner Forward - Full Forward - Left Wing Forward


The game is played using a hurl or hurley (Irish: camán) and this is made from ash. It is similar to a hockey stick but wider at the base with a large flat striking surface. The hurl is used to control and strike the ball called a sliothar (pronounced: sli-thur) which is a hard leather covered ball about the size of a tennis ball made form a core of twine bound cork.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d4/Hurling_Ball_and_Hurley.JPG/800px-Hurling_Ball_and_Hurley.JPG

The idea in hurling is to get the sliothar over the bar and between the posts of your opponents goal, doing so awards you with a single point. If the sliothar is hit into the net it is worth a goal - or 3 points.

The goal posts are seven yards (6.37 m) apart and the crossbar is seven feet (2.12 m) above the ground.

It's played on a pitch that is much larger than a soccer or rugby pitch. You might have noticed during the 6 Nations this year during the Ireland games in Croke park that the pitch surface was huge in comparison to the Rugby layout.

Here's a good sketch from BBC.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/39420000/gif/_39420559_gaa_pitch_dimensions2_298.gif

At the end of 2 halves of 35 minutes each the team with the most points wins.

Simple really.

Nice introduction to hurling and explanation of the game on this video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AM-kB1e96CA) here.
Looks quite fun! Don't think I couldbe trusted with one of those big sticks though! Do they play it anywhere else in the world apart from Ireland?

[darksnowman]

Federer set ups the meeting with Roddick with a four sets victory over Feliciano Lopez.

http://www.usopen.org/images/pics/large/b_0903_080_Federer.jpg

[conzer16]

They do. As far as I know there is a European Championship and Warwickshire, London and something-else-shire have teams as well.

London play in the Connacht Football Championship and the Ulser Hurling Championship.

[Goron_3]

Anyone been watching the cricket so far? The ODIs have all been fantastic! Shame I'm at school tomorrow so i'll miss it, but I'm hoping India will win so it becomes 3-3 and we get a tense finale :)

Also, F1 this weekend shall be AWESOME! Anyone know what track it is? i heard it's monza..?

[mr-paul]

Anyone been watching the cricket so far? The ODIs have all been fantastic! Shame I'm at school tomorrow so i'll miss it, but I'm hoping India will win so it becomes 3-3 and we get a tense finale :)

Also, F1 this weekend shall be AWESOME! Anyone know what track it is? i heard it's monza..?
Yeah it is Monza.

[Zell]

Anyone been watching the cricket so far? The ODIs have all been fantastic! Shame I'm at school tomorrow so i'll miss it, but I'm hoping India will win so it becomes 3-3 and we get a tense finale :)

Also, F1 this weekend shall be AWESOME! Anyone know what track it is? i heard it's monza..?

Yes they have! I still think we'll end up winning overall, our world cup side has matured a fair bit. The only thing stopping us is all our bloody injuries.

[mr-paul]

Andy Roddick v Roger Federer in the US Open quarter final. Should be a goood match. Still looks like Federer will probably end up winning it though.

Anyone watching the England India cricket? Looks like its going to be a close match.

[Zell]

Anyone watched the cricket? Bloody fantastic!

[Goron_3]

Anyone watched the cricket? Bloody fantastic!

Fuck yes. It was ABSOLUTELY incredible! Uthappa played great, considering it's his first game of the series. Quite easily the best cricket ODI match i've ever seen.

[mr-paul]

Anyone watched the cricket? Bloody fantastic!
Great match! Shame England lost though.

[Zell]

Fuck yes. It was ABSOLUTELY incredible! Uthappa played great, considering it's his first game of the series. Quite easily the best cricket ODI match i've ever seen.

Hah, it's not quite as good as the South Africa vs Australia match last year where both teams scored 430 or something.

Great match! Shame England lost though.

Tis a shame, we played so well, but at least now there will be thrilling final on Saturday.

[darksnowman]

Well, The Fed Machine rolls on past Andy Roddick and into the semi's to meet Davydenko. It was a tight three setter in the early hours of this morning after a reasonably epic womans match up between Venus and Jankovic, with Venus winning in a third set tie break.

http://www.usopen.org/images/pics/large/b_0905_078_Federer.jpg

Allez la Suisse! :bouncy:

[mr-paul]

Definitely looks like Federer will win the US Open now, especially seeing that Nadal is out.

[motion]

Allez la France pour demain.

[somme]

The only sport I could ever play well was Badminton.

[motion]

Why am I not surprised ;)

[UK]

This seems like the right thread...

Does anyone know a site where I can get cheap, decent dumbells? 'Cos the only place I can weight treain right now is school.

EDIT- do you think I should start my own thread?

[motion]

When I had to buy my own dumbells, I just used argos. They were cheapest and had decent quality ones.

[UK]

When I had to buy my own dumbells, I just used argos. They were cheapest and had decent quality ones.

Cheers mate *shows motion love*:love:

[somme]

Why am I not surprised ;)

I disliked football and rugby...well actually any outside sport...

I was afraid of the balls. ;)

[motion]

MOTION LOVE, OOOOOOHHHH YEAAAHHHHH....

[Charlie]

This seems like the right thread...

Does anyone know a site where I can get cheap, decent dumbells? 'Cos the only place I can weight treain right now is school.

EDIT- do you think I should start my own thread?

It's not the best if you want something heavy, but you could fill up bottles of water to make-do while yours are getting delivered.

[mr-paul]

What time is the rugby today? I'm very annoyed because England Rugby is on at the same time as England Football tomorrow, which means I'll miss the rugby. And England cricket is on at the same time aswell. Couldn't they have arranged that they were all on at different times?

[Daft]

Yay! The rugby is about to start!!

What time is the rugby today? I'm very annoyed because England Rugby is on at the same time as England Football tomorrow, which means I'll miss the rugby. And England cricket is on at the same time aswell. Couldn't they have arranged that they were all on at different times?

What time is the match tomorrow?

[mr-paul]

5pm kickoff, both football and rugby.

[Daft]

5pm kickoff, both football and rugby.

Cheers! Damn, I'm going to have to cut it close I have some T4 music show thingy to go to...

[Demuwan]

We have the football thread, which is extremely active, but I have noticed that not many other sports are mentioned on here, apart from the occasional F1 thread or rugby which pops up every so often and other random events. Therefore, I have created this general sports thread for any sport that isn't football! Cricket, Rugby, Tennis, Lawn Bowls, whatever interests you, post it in here!

To start off, has anyone been watching the athletics? Us Brits didn't do too bad in it. What do you think about Christine Ohorugu's situation (missed 3 drugs tests so is banned from the olympics). Personally, I feel she should be allowed, as her mistake was through pure stupidity, not avoiding tests because she was actually on drugs.

I see you took my advice and started it then :grin:

Btw Anyone watching under 17 World Cup on Eurosport

Nigeria V Spain in the final. I'll be rooting for Nigeria :awesome:

[mr-paul]

Whoah, New Zealand thrashed italy in the rugby, 76-14. My money is on them to win the World Cup.

In cricket, it looks like England have a good chance to win against India, with a target of just 188.

And in formula 1, Fernando Alonso is on pole, with Lewis Hamilton in second place. Heidfeld broke up the top four by claiming fourth place in qualifying.

Also... COME ON ENGLAND! (both rugby and football)

[Goron_3]

Whoah, New Zealand thrashed italy in the rugby, 76-14. My money is on them to win the World Cup.

In cricket, it looks like England have a good chance to win against India, with a target of just 188.

And in formula 1, Fernando Alonso is on pole, with Lewis Hamilton in second place. Heidfeld broke up the top four by claiming fourth place in qualifying.

Also... COME ON ENGLAND! (both rugby and football)

England take 2 early wickets though, rele didn't see that coming. England should make it though!

It's strange how slow the Ferrari's are :(

[UK]

It's not the best if you want something heavy, but you could fill up bottles of water to make-do while yours are getting delivered.

I'm getting them for my birthday... which is next month.

But I do fill draws up with mags, etc, so I'm inventive. And I'll try your suggestion too.

[mr-paul]

Yay, victories for all 3 england teams, football, cricket and rugby!
Cricket team played very well, fully deserved their victory.
Football team were a lot better than usual, very good goal from Owen, although Joe Cole was still trying to be Joecoledinho.
Didnt watch tthe rugby, but from what I've heard from my dad, weren't too convincing. Overall though, a good day for british sport.

[Roostophe]

Yay, victories for all 3 england teams, football, cricket and rugby!
Cricket team played very well, fully deserved their victory.
Football team were a lot better than usual, very good goal from Owen, although Joe Cole was still trying to be Joecoledinho.
Didnt watch tthe rugby, but from what I've heard from my dad, weren't too convincing. Overall though, a good day for british sport.

Not really for British sport. More for English and Scottish Sport...

By the way. The plural for Sport is actually "Sport". Like with fruit. Please bear in mind.

[mr-paul]

Not really for British sport. More for English and Scottish Sport...

By the way. The plural for Sport is actually "Sport". Like with fruit. Please bear in mind.
I actually meant English sport. Don't know why I put British. ah well. silly me.

[stev2604]

Federer through against Davydenko, relatively easily but the 3rd set was a bit shaky...

http://www.usopen.org/images/pics/large/b_0901_061_federer.jpg

He's playing Djokovic in the final, who beat Ferrer

http://www.usopen.org/images/pics/large/b_0908_012_djokovic.jpg

Hopefully Federer wins. Although Djokovic won their last match, Federer did'nt play well and even then it was 7-6 in the 3rd....

Btw, has anyone seen Djokers impressions?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KuJSg51SNw
:laughing: :laughing:

[darksnowman]

Nice update, Stev2604! That truly was a weird third set last night, so many breaks of serve and Federer even had to save a couple of set points. I was glad to see him pull through in straight sets, though before the match I would have predicted it to be a four setter- I thought Davydenko, on his current form, would've stolen the first set.

Anyhow, Super Saturday was brought to a close with the Women's Final- Henin vs Kuznetsova. It was a straight sets win for Henin: 6-1 6-3.

http://www.usopen.org/images/pics/large/b_0908_067_henin.jpg


Nevermind that though, tonight is the big one- Federer v Djokovic... I hope Roger absolutely annihilates him, especially after losing to Djokovic in Montreal the other week.

Allez la Suisse!

[mr-paul]

Nice update, Stev2604! That truly was a weird third set last night, so many breaks of serve and Federer even had to save a couple of set points. I was glad to see him pull through in straight sets, though before the match I would have predicted it to be a four setter- I thought Davydenko, on his current form, would've stolen the first set.

Anyhow, Super Saturday was brought to a close with the Women's Final- Henin vs Kuznetsova. It was a straight sets win for Henin: 6-1 6-3.

http://www.usopen.org/images/pics/large/b_0908_067_henin.jpg


Nevermind that though, tonight is the big one- Federer v Djokovic... I hope Roger absolutely annihilates him, especially after losing to Djokovic in Montreal the other week.

Allez la Suisse!
Are you swiss by any chance darksnowman? :heh:

[darksnowman]

Are you swiss by any chance darksnowman? :heh:

Nice guess Paulie, but my passport says otherwise! :p

[motion]

England were awful against the USA. A win is a win but it really really wasn't great.

[stev2604]

Nevermind that though, tonight is the big one- Federer v Djokovic... I hope Roger absolutely annihilates him, especially after losing to Djokovic in Montreal the other week.

Allez la Suisse!

Thanks!

I'm hoping for the same too, hopefully Federer can put Djokovic in his place! Djokovic can be a bit cheeky at times, in Australia this year he openly declared he'd beat Federer, only to be brushed aside easily in the end! Federers not exactly heaping the praise on Djokovic either; last year he called him a joke and accused him of faking injury!

Anyway Federer to win in straight sets!

[darksnowman]

Yeah you're right, Djokovic is a good player but he can be annoying... he's a bit too cocky or something. Federer complimented him last night by saying that he wished he was getting the results that Djokovic is when he was his age!

I could see Djokovic maybe getting a set later but I reckon Roger will blitz him to show he's still top dog. :yay:

[motion]

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44104000/jpg/_44104738_barkley416.jpg

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44104000/jpg/_44104781_robinson416.jpg

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44104000/jpg/_44104673_elsom416.jpg

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44104000/jpg/_44104476_howlett416.jpg

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44104000/jpg/_44104482_collins416.jpg

[Goron_3]

What a shit day for Ferrari :( It's all but over for Massa, and I reckon Kimi will only have a chance if something drastic happens to both Mclarens next week.

[mr-paul]

This weekend’s major sporting results:

Football: European Qualifiers

England 3-0 Israel
Scotland 3-1 Lithuania
Slovakia 2-2 Rep of Ireland
Wales 0-2 Germany
Latvia 1-0 N. Ireland

Rugby Union World Cup

Group A:
England 28-10 USA
South Africa 59-7 Samoa

Group B:
Australia 91-3 Japan
Wales 42- 17 Canada

Group C:
New Zealand 76-14 Italy
Scotland 56-10 Portugal

Group D:
France 12-17 Argentina
Ireland 32-17 Namibia

Cricket: ODI

England 188-3 India 187
England wins by 7 Wickets

F1: Italian Grand Prix

1) Fernando Alonso (Spa) McLaren 1hr 18mins 37.806secs
2) Lewis Hamilton (Gbr) McLaren 1:18:43.806,
3) Kimi Raikkonen (Fin) Ferrari 1:19:05.106,
4) Nick Heidfeld (Ger) BMW Sauber 1:19:34.306,
5) Robert Kubica (Pol) BMW Sauber 1:19:38.306,
6) Nico Rosberg (Ger) Williams 1:19:43.606,
7) Heikki Kovalainen (Fin) Renault 1:19:44.506,
8) Jenson Button (Gbr) Honda 1:19:49.906

Tennis: US Open

Womens Final:
Justine Henin beat Svetlana Kuznetsova
6-1 6-3

Mens Final:
Roger Federer beat Novak Djokovic
7-6 7-6 6-4

Athletics

Asafa Powell has broken the Mens 100m World Record, with a time of 9.74 seconds.

EDIT: Added Federer Result

[darksnowman]

Ah yes:

http://www.usopen.org/images/pics/large/b_0909_068_federer.jpg

Victory! :yay:

[motion]

Fantastic game, best in the tournament so far!! South Africa 30-25 Tonga

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44132000/jpg/_44132571_smith300.jpg

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44132000/jpg/_44132579_skinstad300.jpg

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44132000/jpg/_44132597_tonga_second300.jpg



Argentina proving they're simply awesome... Argentina 63-3 Namibia

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44132000/jpg/_44132682_arg416.jpg

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44132000/jpg/_44132712_corleto300.jpg



And of course... England 44 - 22 Samoa

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44132000/jpg/_44132334_300corrytry.jpg

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44132000/jpg/_44132632_sackey301.jpg

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44132000/jpg/_44132616_wilko300.jpg

[mr-paul]

Great pics motion.

Does anyone know if Tim Henman is playing in the Davis Cup Tennis today, because it says he's scheduled to play the final singles game, but all the press are saying that he's bowed out in style/played his final match etc.

[Zell]

Henman played his final tennis game yesterday, which he (and Jamie Murray) won, putting Britain back in the world group.

[mr-paul]

Henman played his final tennis game yesterday, which he (and Jamie Murray) won, putting Britain back in the world group.

I know it says that, but there are Britain Davis Cup games today and if you look at the Davis Cup website:


R1 - A.MURRAY (GBR) def. M.CILIC (CRO)
3-6 6-4 6-2 4-6 6-3
R2 - T.HENMAN (GBR) def. R.KARANUSIC (CRO)
6-4 6-3 6-3
R3 - T.HENMAN / J.MURRAY (GBR) def. M.CILIC / L.ZOVKO (CRO)
4-6 6-4 7-6(3) 7-5
R4 - A.MURRAY (GBR) v R.KARANUSIC (CRO)
R5 - T.HENMAN (GBR) v M.CILIC (CRO)


He's due to play today. Andy Murray is currently playing and is leading 4-2 in the first set.

[gmac]

I think the thing was he's played his last meaningful match, since these last 2 matches are dead rubbers

[mr-paul]

Yeah, they explained it, he'd won a meaningful match and went out on a high rather than playing a meaningless match last and possibly losing. Jamie Baker played instead of him.

[conzer16]

2008 Hurling and Football Championships have been made tonight:

Leinster Hurling Championship

(QF1) Laois vs Offaly
(QF2) Dublin vs Westmeath
(SF1) Wexford vs (2)
(SF2) Kilkenny vs (3)

Leinster Football Championship

(Pre1) Kildare vs Wicklow
(Pre2) Meath vs Carlow
(Pre3) Longford vs Westmeath
(QF1) (Pre1) vs Laois
(QF2) (Pre2) vs Wexford
(QF3) (Pre3) vs Offaly
(QF4) Louth vs Dublin
(SF1) (QF1) vs (QF2)
(SF2) (QF3) vs (QF4)

Munster Hurling Championship

(QF1) Waterford vs Clare
(SF1) Limerick vs (QF1)
(SF2) Cork vs Tipperary

Munster Football Championship

(QF1) Limerick v Tipperary
(QF2) Clare vs Waterford
(SF1)(QF2) vs Kerry
(SF2)(QF1) vs Cork

Connacht Football Championship

(QF1) New York vs Leitrim
(QF2) London vs Sligo
(QF3) Galway vs Roscommon
(SF2) Mayo vs (QF2)
(SF2) (QF1) vs (QF3)

Ulster Football Championship

(Pre1) Antrim vs Cavan
(QF1) (Pre1) vs Armagh
(QF2) Fermanagh vs Monaghan
(QF3) Donegal vs Derry
(QF4) Tyrone vs Down
(SF1) (QF2) vs (QF3)
(SF2) (QF1) vs (QF4)

[Gizmo]

Anyone watching the snooker this week?

I'm supporting Hendry and Higgins as always.

[mr-paul]

Anyone watching the snooker this week?

I'm supporting Hendry and Higgins as always.

Don't really like watching snooker. I get bored after a couple of frames.
And other programs get cancelled for it.

[Goron_3]

Snooker is AWESOME!

I've been a long term fan of hendry so I want him to win, but Robertson is pretty awesome too!

[dynastygal]

As I was about to say....before net died.

I don't like watching most sports because I find them boring, but I really enjoy watching extreme sports like skateboarding, rollerblading, bmxing, and dirt track motor bike racing. I also don't mind playing badmington, tennis, squash, and cricket. I love to play football though.

[mr-paul]

badmington
Sorry, but I've see so many people spell it like this on here, I have to correct it! It's spelt
BADMINTON!

Without the G!

[dynastygal]

Meh, we can't all be good at spelling.

Oh, I'll also play snooker and pool of course...I had one of those sets that you could set up on a dining table to play it on. Same goes for table tennis.

[mr-paul]

Meh, we can't all be good at spelling.

Oh, I'll also play snooker and pool of course...I had one of those sets that you could set up on a dining table to play it on. Same goes for table tennis.

It wasn't aimed at you, just in general.
Especially as it isnt even said badMINGton.

[dynastygal]

G's can be silent ;)

[Coolness Bears]

I regulary mispell and mispronounce the word! :D

I love Badminton! :)

I also Like Bouncemington! :grin:

[gtfo moria]

IS TITS OR GTFO A SPORT? HUH?

[mcj metroid]

IS TITS OR GTFO A SPORT? HUH?

......wow you are a dickhead.

[gtfo moria]

......wow you are a dickhead.

http://a.abcnews.com/images/International/abc_gma_maddie_070910_ms.jpg

[mcj metroid]

wow admins ARE slow tonight well at least you have a record amount of time now.

[darksnowman]

Sorry, but I've see so many people spell it like this on here, I have to correct it! It's spelt
BADMINTON!

Without the G!

A good sport, I like to play it and I watch it from time to time - though it never seems as exciting as tennis or something like that. Also, it might be spelt badminton but that doesn't change its pronunciation: babbleton!

Also, anyone into and/ or keeping tabs on the snooker tourny at the mo?

[darksnowman]

(bump!)

Who let this thread die then?

With the recent bouts of darts and snooker and now the Australian Open (tennis) I feel its time to get back on track with this thread for 2008.

Last night Selby won the Masters, defeating Stephen Lee in the final. I've been reluctant to like Selby (I hate all the new people that spring up in snooker, why can't they leave it to the oldies?) but with this win, I think its time to give in and accept him for the talent he is. Theres something weird about his appearance though- his eyes are always glazed over or something.

Anyway, onwards to tennis. Since the Australian Open is in Melbourne, it takes place during the night for us and I hadn't been taking too much notice of it last week until Saturday. Unlike Wimbledon, they play some matches at night as well as during the day which means the night matches are televised here in the not so small hours of our mornings. So on Saturday, there was an absolutely epic one between Federer and Tipsarevic (who looks a bit like the footballer, Gattuso- or is it just me?) with Roger finally coming through 10-8 in the fifth set. Its not very often we see the world number one pushed to such lengths and afterwards he acknowledged that it was a great match to be part of especially because he doesn't get the opportunity to be pushed so hard.

That match ended late enough, local time, but then afterwards... it was followed by another five setter between Hewitt and Bagdahtis that didn't conclude until 04:30 in Melbourne and 17:30 here on Saturday afternoon. Unbelievable stuff and maybe it will make them rethink their scheduling of night matches in the future! :blank:

Coincidentally, Hewitt has since been beaten by Djokovic and Federer "eased" through his next match in three straight sets, although it was a tough one.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44369000/jpg/_44369014_rog_getty_270.jpg

[mr-paul]

I read about that Federer game, sounded like an excellent match, shame I couldn't watch it. That's the problem with the Aussie Open, how the matches are in the middle of the night!

What channel is it being televised on btw? Sky or Eurosport??

[King_V]

Talking of sport, does anyone know of any London-based athletics clubs that run on the weekend? Can't seem to find any :(...

[darksnowman]

Eurosport with Annabelle Croft and the gang. I noticed there is something on BBC on the red button but I haven't checked it out to see what they are up to with that. Likely not much as Murray fell at the first hurdle, haha. :laughing:

[mr-paul]

Eurosport with Annabelle Croft and the gang. I noticed there is something on BBC on the red button but I haven't checked it out to see what they are up to with that. Likely not much as Murray fell at the first hurdle, haha. :laughing:

Aah coolio, will have to check it out, havent watched any tennis for a while. Final is this Sunday yes?

[darksnowman]

Mens Quarter-final

Federer v Blake
Djokovic v Ferrer
Tsonga v Youzhny
Nieminen v Nadal

I'm hoping for a Federer v Youzhny final. Djokovic will want to give Federer a scare though and try and stamp his authority early in the year as he tries to move it up and get properly in the running to become world number one. Nadal, I just can't stand him.

Womens Quarter-final

Henin v Sharapova
Jankovic v S Williams
V Williams v Ivanovic
Hantuchova v Radwanska

I'm not really too worried with what happens in the womens side. A Serena v Venus final, why not.

Also mr-paulie, you can watch some stuff on bbc.co.uk, and there are also highlights on youtube if you need. And yep, the finals will be this weekend.

[Charlie]

I read about that Federer game, sounded like an excellent match, shame I couldn't watch it. That's the problem with the Aussie Open, how the matches are in the middle of the night!

What channel is it being televised on btw? Sky or Eurosport??

BBCi show live matches from 8am until whenever they finish and then show a repeat of what they think was the best game of the day for the rest of the day.

I keep on meaning to get up to watch it, but I always forget. The only game I've seen was Federer's first match where he completely destroyed his opponent.

[mr-paul]

Talking of sport, does anyone know of any London-based athletics clubs that run on the weekend? Can't seem to find any :(...

King V, i can't help you with your request, not living in the London area, but just out of interest, what event do you do?

[Charlie]

Womens Quarter-final

Henin v Sharapova
Jankovic v S Williams
V Williams v Ivanovic
Hantuchova v Radwanska

I'm not really too worried with what happens in the womens side. A Serena v Venus final, why not.

Also mr-paulie, you can watch some stuff on bbc.co.uk, and there are also highlights on youtube if you need. And yep, the finals will be this weekend.

I would love a Serena - Venus final, it would show they're both finally back to what they used to be like.

As for the men's I really don't care as long as Nadal doesn't win. I like watching Federer just because he's so good, I don't mind if he doesn't win overall though. Can't believe Murray went out in the first round! I still prefer Henman to Murray though, he was so much more professional and more exciting to watch. There aren't enough serve and volleyers anymore.

[King_V]

King V, i can't help you with your request, not living in the London area, but just out of interest, what event do you do?

I am a Taekwondo competition fighter first and foremost. But I am a fast runner and want to improve upon it, right now I run about 10.5 seconds in 100m. I'm only interested in the 100m-200m dash.

Are you a sporting person?

[mr-paul]

I am a Taekwondo competition fighter first and foremost. But I am a fast runner and want to improve upon it, right now I run about 10.5 seconds in 100m. I'm only interested in the 100m-200m dash.

Are you a sporting person?

Whoah that's a very good time.
I run middle distance mainly, 800 and 1500m, occasionally 3000m. But during the winter I do cross country as training for the summer. It's pretty tough, I have to run 9km in XC in my age group, but it really keeps you fit through the winter and gets endurance into your legs for the summer events.

[Gizmo]

Also mr-paulie, you can watch some stuff on bbc.co.uk, and there are also highlights on youtube if you need. And yep, the finals will be this weekend.

Ivanovic vs Sharapova final ftw.

Also, anyone watch the snooker final last night? Selby absolutely destroyed hamster boy, it was brilliant.

[Goron_3]

Well India beating the Aussies has definately been the highlight of my sporting week. They were absolutely fantastic and here's hoping that India win the final game so it finishes as 2-2.

The snooker last week was just amazing; Selby showing great form and as a fan of his i'm happy to see him finally win a title. When Ronnie got a 147 in the final frame to beat him in the last tournie..well, i wanted to break the tv. Fantastic player and i hope he can continue to climb up the rankings.

[darksnowman]

Ivanovic vs Sharapova final ftw.

Also, anyone watch the snooker final last night? Selby absolutely destroyed hamster boy, it was brilliant.

Yeah I follow the snooker. I wouldn't have picked Selby to win it before the tournament started, but he played well and beat some good players- and I was definitely backing him in the final!

As for your pick for the tennis, thats what I hate about the womens game- its a glamour contest.

[Gizmo]

As for your pick for the tennis, thats what I hate about the womens game- its a glamour contest.

Haha, true :bowdown:

[stev2604]

The Roddick Kohlschreiber match was fantastic as well. I think Tsonga has an outside chance of making the final, the last two years it's been surprise finalists, why not again this year? Djokovic hasn't been too impressive really.

I hope Ivanovic reaches the final, and wins it against either Henin or Serena. Also Hantuchova to make the semis.

[King_V]

Whoah that's a very good time.
I run middle distance mainly, 800 and 1500m, occasionally 3000m. But during the winter I do cross country as training for the summer. It's pretty tough, I have to run 9km in XC in my age group, but it really keeps you fit through the winter and gets endurance into your legs for the summer events.

Ahhh, thats nice. How old are you? You never know, 2012 is just around the corner so keep it up. I might try some long distance as I am finding it easy to stay on the treadmill for 40 mins, with a final speed of about 10 mph.

[mr-paul]

Ahhh, thats nice. How old are you? You never know, 2012 is just around the corner so keep it up. I might try some long distance as I am finding it easy to stay on the treadmill for 40 mins, with a final speed of about 10 mph.

I'm 17, so I've just gone up to the U20 age category. I'm basically running against full grown men, many who are over 6 foot tall and have MASSIVE legs. It is very hard seeing i'm only 5"6, they can go so much faster than me atm, i havent fully grown yet! Still, I will keep on going!

2012 is still a dream...

I'd quite like to do a marathon in a couple of years time. Requires an awful lot of training, but i'd like to do it for a charity so would be for a good cause.

[conzer16]

Munster away to Gloucester in the Heineken Cup quarter final.

Munster are now favourites to win it after beating the holder Wasps.

[King_V]

I'm 17, so I've just gone up to the U20 age category. I'm basically running against full grown men, many who are over 6 foot tall and have MASSIVE legs. It is very hard seeing i'm only 5"6, they can go so much faster than me atm, i havent fully grown yet! Still, I will keep on going!

2012 is still a dream...

I'd quite like to do a marathon in a couple of years time. Requires an awful lot of training, but i'd like to do it for a charity so would be for a good cause.

Thats great stuff. The fact that you're running with grown men, wether you lose or not, means you're gaining vital experience...Think of it as experience points in a FF game; they'll help you to level up. :P Just keep on doing it...It will come. (its almost sexual lol).

[Gizmo]

Ivanovic vs Sharapova final ftw.

Oh hell yeah.

[Daft]

HAHA!!! Tsonga is kicking Nadal's butt!!!

[darksnowman]

Oh hell yeah.

Glamourous.

HAHA!!! Tsonga is kicking Nadal's butt!!!

Oh, yes! Nadal is such a scum.

"Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga produced an outstanding display to oust second seed Rafael Nadal 6-2 6-3 6-2 and reach the final of the Australian Open."

:yay:

[Daft]

Aaaaargh!! Federer is losing!!!

But I really like Djokovic so its not all bad! :p

[conzer16]

RBS 6 Nations IS BACK!!!

Fixtures:

2 Feb 14:00 Ireland vs Italy Croke Park, Dublin
2 Feb 16:30 England vs Wales Twickenham, London
3 Feb 15:00 Scotland vs France Murrayfield, Edinburgh
9 Feb 14:00 Wales vs Scotland Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
9 Feb 17:00 France vs Ireland Stade de France, Paris
10 Feb 15:30 Italy vs England Stadio Flaminio, Rome
23 Feb 15:00 Wales vs Italy Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
23 Feb 17:00 Ireland vs Scotland Croke Park, Dublin
23 Feb 21:00 France vs England Stade de France, Paris

8 Mar 13:15 Ireland vs Wales Croke Park, Dublin
8 Mar 15:15 Scotland vs England Murrayfield, Edinburgh
9 Mar 16:00 France vs Italy Stade de France, Paris
15 Mar 14:00 Italy vs Scotland Stadio Flaminio, Rome
15 Mar 15:00 England vs Ireland Twickenham, London
15 Mar 17:00 Wales vs France Millennium Stadium, Cardiff



First game is over already Ireland beat Italy 16-11 in a very unconvincing performance. Memories of the nightmare that was the World Cup haunted the Irish team today. Eddie O'Sullivan is under huge pressure here, but still refuses to do anything about his starting line-up. I nearly fell over when he brough on substitutes at the 60 minute mark! He must have been reading the papers this week!

England currently playing Wales and leading them 9-3.

Well Wales tured around an awful first half performance to beat England at Twickenham for the first time in 20 years by 19-26!


Go on the Wales!!!!!!

[Ellmeister]

Shit son :( Good work Wales =/

[stev2604]

Thought I'd give this thread a bump.


In the US Open, Federer beat Djokovic impressively today, 6-3 5-7 7-5 6-2. He's coming back towards his best and he'll play either Nadal or Murray in the Final.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44993000/jpg/_44993996_federer_416.jpg

Rain prevented Murray's match from being completed, but Murray was leading 6-2 7-6 2-3. It's unfortunate as Murray's momentum will completely fizzle out. They'll continue tomorrow at 9.30pm.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44994000/jpg/_44994262_murrayfist_216.jpg

[Fresh]

Any body see Amir Khan today? I found it hilarious, I'm not a fan of his after he sold out and talked him self up to be the greatest thing since sliced bread. His talking about how he was "unbreakable" in his blocks proved slightly wrong. Heh.

[Charlie]

So pleased for Murray, he's done so well in the hard court season, going to come in 2nd overall. Hopefully he'll be able to carry on and finish Nadal off tomorrow night but I have a feeling he's going to do a Henman and lose the next 11 games....

[stev2604]

So pleased for Murray, he's done so well in the hard court season, going to come in 2nd overall. Hopefully he'll be able to carry on and finish Nadal off tomorrow night but I have a feeling he's going to do a Henman and lose the next 11 games....

It's so unfortunate as well for him seeing as it's Nadal he's playing. Nadal is the very hardest player to actually *beat*, he never gives up whatever the score or situation. But hopefully he can continue and win, I'd love to see how he fares against an inform Federer.

[Charlie]

It's so unfortunate as well for him seeing as it's Nadal he's playing. Nadal is the very hardest player to actually *beat*, he never gives up whatever the score or situation. But hopefully he can continue and win, I'd love to see how he fares against an inform Federer.

He beat Federer last Summer didn't he when Federer was on the top of his game? Murrary - Federer would be my dream final, Federer is such a model professional and then Murray is British. I'd want Murray to win but seriously wouldn't mind at all if he didn't because Federer is just so damn awesome.

[JonSt]

Murray's beating Federer a few times, but the problem may be down to how long Murray takes to finish off Nadal, if it's quick then he'll be plenty rested, but if it's a five setter, then Federer would come into it on the back of 2 half days off, as opposed to Murray's no days off.

[Dog-amoto]

Any body see Amir Khan today? I found it hilarious, I'm not a fan of his after he sold out and talked him self up to be the greatest thing since sliced bread. His talking about how he was "unbreakable" in his blocks proved slightly wrong. Heh.

Funniest thing I've seen for ages! I hate him - I really do. Everyone loves him round here, being a local lad and all, but I think he's a cocky arsehole and this may bring him down a peg or two.

[darksnowman]

I'm unsure who I want to win out of Murray and Nadal- I dislike them both, but I must say, I was pleased to see Nadal not getting his way against Murray. I reckon its the best I've seen Murray play yet. I want neither of them to win the tournament cos I support Federer all the way! :yay:

Murray is such an idiot though. Why can't there be a decent Brit for us to properly get behind?

[JonSt]

I'm unsure who I want to win out of Murray and Nadal- I dislike them both, but I must say, I was pleased to see Nadal not getting his way against Murray. I reckon its the best I've seen Murray play yet. I want neither of them to win the tournament cos I support Federer all the way! :yay:

Murray is such an idiot though. Why can't there be a decent Brit for us to properly get behind?

Why is Murray an idiot

Because he's not a glorified puppet like Henman? because he actually has opinions and doesn't mind showing a bit of emotion.

[darksnowman]

I didn't say I liked Henman either. :heh: There was one time I supported Henman, and it was the other year when he reached the semi's of the French Open. I backed him because no one ever expected him to do so well and it was nice to see someone like him do well on a clay court.

There's nothing wrong with showing some emotion, but Murray has always come across as a twat. He's not really liked worldwide because of it.

[gmac]

McEnroe likes him :)

probably cause he was moaning that there was no-one showing any emotion a few years ago

[ThePigMarcher]

The proper start of the NFL regular season today (barring the Thursday opener) ... finally. I hate the off-season as there aren't many other sports I watch.

Pizza is pre-booked , Jack Daniels re-stocked and people already know not to ring/visit me during gametimes.

Will now be spending the next 21 Mondays , 16 Tuesdays and occasional Fridays as tired as crap and unable to function (more than usual anyway).

Quietly positive about the season ahead for my Seahawks , despite a few concerns.

[gaggle64]

Anyone listening to the US open? It's 2 sets to 1, Murray's off to a strong start in the fourth set, this is a rollicking good match.

[JonSt]

Anyone listening to the US open? It's 2 sets to 1, Murray's off to a strong start in the fourth set, this is a rollicking good match.

Yeh, he's on break point.

'mon the Murray!

[gaggle64]

Bloody hell, they just can't seem to put each other away! We'll be on this game forever!

[JonSt]

Bloody hell, they just can't seem to put each other away! We'll be on this game forever!

You were saying? :p

It's all going Pete Tong.

[gaggle64]

That's Nadal though, isn't it? Even Murray looses this he's already provided solid proof of his bright future. He's only going to get stronger.

[JonSt]

That's Nadal though, isn't it? Even Murray looses this he's already provided solid proof of his bright future. He's only going to get stronger.

Yep, as my brother said to me last night; "it's gonna be another Henman vs Ivanisevic"


Or perhaps not, Murray showing some fight.

[Fresh]

Oh my, Oh my. :)

[JonSt]

Go on Andy, one more match and we've finally got a Scottish (British) grand slam champion whose still alive.

[gaggle64]

He's done it! He's only bloody done it! Murray v. Federer! Be there!

[Charlie]

OMG, wow. Can't believe he won that. The whole bar went mad last night when he won it, such a good atmosphere in there and we didn't even have sound on the TV.

[darksnowman]

Greg Rusedski was near in tears and Petch could barely hold himself together. Some achievement for Murray... he DID play some good stuff, but it was still blown out of proportion, lol. I watched the vast majority of the match over the weekend, and the way I seen it, Murray basically stayed with Nadal and kept himself in the rallies without doing anything too spectacular. Then, either Nadal hit the ball out or Murray eventually hit a shot with a bit more power than he had been doing.

Best I've seen Murray play though, and I detest Nadal too- but I'm not sure who was the lesser evil in that match! Anyone see him meeting Will Ferrell afterwards? A pair of idiots together. :laughing:

See if Federer doesn't win tonight, there is something badly wrong.

[Charlie]

1st Set Games UNDER 8.5 @ 4/1 - £2
Murray to Win 3-1 @ 11/2 - £1
A Murray to Win 3-2 @ 11/2 - £1
Murray to Win @ 13/8 - £5
1st Set Correct Score R Federer to Win 7-5 @ 14/1 - £1

My bets for tonight. Went for the gung-ho approach for Murray to win so mega-joy if the actually does!

Can't wait until tonight. The match better finish before 1am otherwise I won't get to see the end because we're going to be out a pub watching it!

Ahhh! Crisis! The bar we were planning on going to in Stirling closes at 12 and nothing will be open any later on a Monday night in Stirling! Might have to head into Glasgow instead and taxi it home....

[darksnowman]

So like... Murray lost. :laughing:

Long live Federer. : peace: